Yesterday the family had decided it was time to let go, emotionally and physically, of my Mum’s ashes. If you have ever experienced this, you will know it can be a hard thing to do. Trudi, my Sister, was struggling the most as she had ‘looked after’ the ashes for 2 years, since Mum died, and felt emotionally torn.
As people had travelled to complete this act, we all knew we couldn’t back out. Fortunately the weather was terrible! Storm ‘Bert’ was in full force and our chosen location was on the beach, near Hengistbury Head, which was experiencing some amazing gusts of wind. This, linked with the spume, building along the coastline, was a sight to behold.
We chose an outcrop of rocks, to climb along, where we would ‘release’ Mum and each throw our roses, in the sea, to celebrate my Mum’s life. Probably not my best decision, as the wind was fierce and the waves were smashing against the rocks, soaking everyone. But, we laughed so much and it took our minds off the process and focussed it on staying alive ourselves! No one got injured, no-one fell in and Chris (Brother-in-law) was the only one who sank into the sand up to his hips, then got hit by a wave, which was hilarious for everyone else!
We shared some stories and spoke about the times we spent with Mum, enjoying the view, having a chat and sometimes sitting in silence, before heading to the cafe for the reward of an ice cream or coffee, which was the only reason Mum agreed to go in the first place!
So, as much as there were tears and some sadness, the experience will be remembered forever. The weather, crashing waves, blustery winds all added to a beautiful moment of being together to celebrate an amazing woman. We all had a coffee / ice cream before heading back home to laugh about Chris again 😆.
As corny as this statement is, it is true. “Life is too short” so maximise yours.
I have not always followed these tips but, as I have got older, I have learnt to listen to the wise people around me, more!
Tips for a more fulfilling life:
- Laugh out loud
- Let go of ‘stuff’ that is holding you back
- Forgive people more often
- Be nice to yourself
- Understand everyone has a opinion and you won’t like them all
- Find the good in every situation, even if it’s a hard lesson
- Make the effort to connect with family and friends
- No time is a rubbish excuse
- Too far is a rubbish excuse
- Be a good person – whatever that looks like for you!